(MENAFN) Venezuela has decided to elevate its security status to the highest level in four western regions as part of its ongoing national defense initiative known as Operation Independence 200, according to official announcements made Friday.

Reports indicated that President Nicolas Maduro directed the order to include the states of Merida, Trujillo, Lara, and Yaracuy, describing the move as essential for maintaining the nation’s “integral defense” amid increased U.S. military presence in the Caribbean.

“We are completing all preparations to reach the optimal condition for the integral defense of our homeland,” he said. “In perfect unity of our people and all sectors, we are working to secure peace and defend our sovereignty.”

According to local reports, Venezuelan authorities emphasized that national security extends beyond the armed forces and requires civilian participation. The government stated that approximately 6.2 million individuals are currently enlisted in the Bolivarian Militia Force, which plays a key role in the country’s defense structure.

Officials noted that 11 states have already been operating under full security protocols, and plans are underway to expand these measures to include Caracas and Miranda in the near future.

Earlier in the week, U.S. officials confirmed that operations authorized under an anti-narcotics directive involve intelligence activities in Venezuela. Washington maintains that its naval deployment near the South American nation targets drug-trafficking networks, while Caracas continues to denounce such actions as part of efforts to push for political change under the pretext of “counter-narcotics” missions.

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